Melbourne July Top 10 Things To Do 2014

Keep busy during the colder season and head outside. There are plenty of things happening this month and we've gone through and picked ten of the best.

1. Melbourne Magic Festival 30 June – 12 July 2014 Created by The Australian Institute of Magic, the Melbourne Magic Festival is the largest magic festival in the southern hemisphere. The festival gives the city the opportunity to see a large variety of world class, spellbinding shows for an extravagant school holiday event. Impressive international guests and incredible performers will make an entertaining and exciting winter show.

2. Henry V by William Shakespeare 1 -12 July 2014 Inspired by a true story, Henry V is an absorbing production exploring and confronting the horrors of war. A talented young cast will perform the Bell Shakespeare production directed by Damien Ryan. The gripping storyline will question the patriotism, religion, monarchy and brotherhood and expose the hidden layers of the courageous King Henry V.

3. Hattah Desert Race 4 - 6 July 2014 Attracting over 500 riders, the 38km Hattah Desert Race is the toughest and largest national junior and senior motorbike desert race in Australia. The North West Victorian Motorcycle Club has been a host for more than ten years and, with the competition running over 3 days, it is sure to guarantee high speed and thrills on the sand hills, as well as live entertainment, rider interviews and big screen vision for spectators.

4. Extravaganza – Eat Drink Discover 12 - 13 July 2014 The perfect place to warm up this winter is at the Geelong Extravaganza - Eat Drink Discover, offering the best of the region's finest winemakers and brewers. Enjoy a selection of premium wines, boutique beers and ciders. The indoor venue also contains a large selection of regionally produced breads, cheese and fresh produce to excite your tastebuds along with providing live kitchen demonstrations and wine and cider master classes.

5. Something For Kate Anniversary Tour 18 July 2014 The Melbourne based rock trio, Something for Kate, is celebrating two decades worth of music with a nation-wide tour. Following two sold out shows, a third Melbourne show has been added at the Forum Theatre. The band will play two sets each night following a special film visually marking their six albums and ambitious twenty year career.

6. 15th Winter Miracles Orchid Show 19 - 20 July 2014 The Yarra Valley Orchid Society presents the 15th annual Winter Miracles Orchid Show. The free event runs over two days and showcases Australian native and exotic orchids, Clivias, ferns, bromeliads and plant collectables. A range of Orchids grown regionally by orchid enthusiasts will also be on display.

7. Finders Keepers Markets 25 - 26 July 2014 The ultimate indie art and design markets are back at The Royal Exhibition Building, Melbourne. Supporting new and emerging independent Australian designers, The Finders Keepers market is home to the very best art and design talent showcasing their latest work. This year the new ‘Farmers Lane’ will be introduced for the first time where you can discover the best selection of fresh food, produce, coffee and exclusive food trucks.

8. The Age Run 27 July 2014 Brave the cold to support your favourite charity for Melbourne’s Age Run in your choice of a 5km walk/run, a 10km run or a half marathon. The 3km Kids Run is also an option encouraging participants of all ages to get active and promote healthy living. Set yourself a challenge by participating in this major community event presented by People’s Choice while giving back to the community.

9. Melbourne Open House 26 - 27 July 2014 Open House Melbourne, a not-for-profit organisation, is a free weekend event running for its seventh year. Explore the famous architecture, engineering and historic buildings around the urban environment of the city with a range of free tours and kid's activities. Over 126,000 visitors are expected over the weekend, embracing their love of history and design at over 100 locations.

10. Melbourne International Film Festival 31 July – 17 August 2014 The annual Melbourne International Film Festival is one of the oldest film festivals in the world and one of Melbourne’s biggest events. Taking place at the Forum Theatre for the 64th year, the festival presents the best in films from around the globe and showcases world premieres of local films and new and emerging filmmaking talent.